Archbishop warns of loss of more than just religious freedom in Venezuela

Konigstein, Germany, Feb 14, 2005 / 12:00 am (CNA).- The president of the Bishops Conference of Venezuela, Archbishop Baltazar Porras Cardozo, is warning that “freedom is in danger, and not only religious freedom” in the South American country.

Speaking with representatives of Aid to the Church in Need, Archbishop Porras said that “normal channels of communication are being blocked” in the country and that fundamental institutions of the state “are losing their autonomy.”

According to the archbishop, the separation of powers in Venezuela “is a farce that is undermining democracy” and there is a fear the country may be following the path of Cuba.

Despite the current situation, he added, the Church will continue to be “faithful to her mission and will raise her voice in defense of the truth and of human rights.”